Recently, actor George Clooney hosted a hugely successful fundraiser for President Joe Biden’s reelection campaign. However, he has now publicly called for the President to withdraw from the upcoming election.
In a New York Times op-ed released on Wednesday, Clooney expressed his admiration for Biden, citing their long-standing friendship and his belief in him as a lifelong Democrat. Despite this, Clooney doubts Biden’s ability to secure victory in the November election.
“In his time as President, Biden has faced and overcome numerous challenges. However, the one battle he may not win is the race against time,” Clooney stated. He remarked that the Biden he witnessed at the recent fundraiser lacked the vigor and charisma he had displayed in the past.
While Biden and his team attribute his lackluster debate performance to a bad night and a cold, Clooney joins a growing number of prominent figures, including Stephen King, Reed Hastings, Rob Reiner, and Abigail Disney, who question Biden’s chances against the Republican candidate. Several members of Congress also share these doubts, though many remain silent.
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“It is my belief, shared by numerous senators, congress members, and governors, that we cannot secure victory with President Biden in November. Furthermore, our chances of retaining the House and Senate are slim,” Clooney asserted. He appealed to top Democrats to request Biden’s voluntary withdrawal and suggested potential replacements such as Vice President Kamala Harris and several state governors.
“While the transition may be chaotic, it is necessary to revitalize our party and engage disenchanted voters,” Clooney wrote.
Considering a replacement scenario signifies a stark contrast to Biden’s recent statements. In response to concerns raised by party members and voters, the President affirmed his determination to stay in the race in a letter sent to congressional Democrats earlier this week.
“I am confident in my ability to defeat Donald Trump in 2024, which is why I am running for president again,” Biden declared in the letter.
